Mothers Day Gift Guide 2025

Finding the ultimate gift for Mother’s Day that perfectly encapsulates all that your mum or mother figure means to you is no easy feat. And while of course, it’s the thought that counts, there’s something about finding a gift with meaning that reminds mum of your unwavering love and appreciation long after the champagne has been popped. Here, we share a comprehensive gift guide with something for every kind of mum, where she’s a homebody, sartorialist, or simply sentimental.

Assouline
Mother and Child from Moda Operandi
Cutipol Goa Chopsticks fromThe Studio of Tableware
Sophie Bille Brahe Gaia Ring from Muse
Aarke Kettle from Allium
Riedel Veritas Coupe Cocktail Pair from Studio of Tableware
Serpenti Viper Ring from Bulgari
Scrubby Garlic Dish Sponge from Gohar World
BYREDO Blanche Absolu de Parfum from Mecca
Miu Miu denim baseball cap from Farfetch
Perrier-Jouët Belle Époque Rosé Vintage from glengarry wines
Lasvit Champagne Cooler from Matisse
project printed Silk Carre Scarf from Gucci
Pallares Kitchen Knife Set from Father Rabbit
Hommey Rock Road Stripes Robe from Superette
1.00 Carat TW Diamond Solitaire Stud Earrings from Michael Hill
Limited Edition Rose & Amber Body Wash from Ecostore
Sambonet Gio Ponti Bowl from The Studio of Tableware
Serpenti Tubogas Watch from Bulgari
By Malene Birger Aya Cosmetic Case from Muse
Acerbis Due Più Armchair from Matisse
Pistachio Papi Pistachio spread from FreshChoice
Birkenstock Boston Shearling slides from Iconic
THE MARGUERITE WOOL scarf from Dark Hampton
CLAREMONT BATH TOWEL from Baina
Tiffany HardWear
Large Link Bracelet from Tiffany & Co.
LOEWE PERFUMES
Bar Soap from Mytheresa
Games collection Mahjong from Studio Italia
Reflections Copenhage crystal box with decks of cards from Farfetch
FEMME bouquet from Flowers After Hours
Audo Copenhagen
Bottle Grinders from Dawson & Co.
Bette Magnetic Bath Cushion from Plumbline
Idyllia clip earrings from Swarovski
Soft Goat Cashmere Cardigan from Muse
Colouring pencil set with Double G from Gucci
Oblique Mirror from Powersurge
GOHAR WORLD lemon squeezer set from net-a-porter
Frequent flyer LOUNGE SET from Robey
Miu Miu
Gymnasium sneakers from Farfetch
Wool blanket with GG Shadow from Gucci
Volumising Shampoo & Conditioner from Finne
FlexStyle Air Styling & Drying System from Shark
Tronque Triple Active Body Milk from Tonic Room
Tiffany HardWear Large Link Earrings from Tiffany & Co.
Hugs & Kisses macaron Collection from J’aime
Soho Home GIOVANNI TABLE LAMP from Design Central
Caviar Kaspia
Matryosha Tatiana By Georges Riu from Moda Operandi
ASHOKA Timo Huggie Bracelet from Partridge
Tiffany HardWear
Small Link Ring from Tiffany & Co.
Kate Van Der Drift, Esk River I (after Gabrielle), 2024 from Sanderson
Lee Broom On Reflection Candle from ECC
The Takumi Wok Set from Ironclad Co.
PANTHÈRE DE CARTIER WATCH from Partridge
ACQUA WATERING CAN from Ligne Roset
Peony & Rose Collection from Ecostore
DiorPacific R1F Sunglasses from Dior
Nick Herd, House of Dreamers from föenander galleries
Augustinus Bader The Rich Eye Cream from FWRD
Vintage Alhambra bracelet, 5 motifs from Van Cleef & Arpels
Onoyoshi Hamono Bud Cutting Shears from Abask
Chronicle Side Tables Plinths from Tim webber
‘GUCCI’ hair clip with crystals from Gucci
TOCCA 30th Anniversary Collector’s Edition Set from Mecca
14ct Yellow Gold Hoop Earrings from Walker & Hall
Arflex Botolo armchair from Studio Italia
Homecourt Cece Hand Cream from Revolve
Tom Dixon Press Large Bowl from ECC
iPhone MagSafe Case from Apple
SKIN Wilma slippers from Net-a-porter
Joanna Buchanan Stripey Bee Napkin Ring Set from Moda Operandi
Good Enough by Dr Tara Porter from Book Hero
STAUD Mini Taru Suede Bag from Muse
Moccamaster KB741 Classic from Havana
Plexiglas and metal barrette from Prada
SKIMS Soft Lounge Rib Sleep Set from Net-a-porter
Elephant charm from Loewe

Coveted

Watch the Gucci’s Cruise 2026 fashion show via livestream, as the House heads back to its roots
Shop the Edit: Dark romance is the sartorial trend of the season, and these are the pieces we’re coveting
Met Gala 2025: Our guide to the best looks from the biggest night out in fashion
Owners Residence

Meet Waimarino Lodge — a luxury getaway in Queenstown that offers travellers a place to call their own

There’s an exquisite hidden haven set to redefine luxury travel in New Zealand — a place where contemporary design and nature’s beauty come together in perfect harmony, and an escape feels like coming home.

Waimarino Lodge

Nestled on the tranquil shores of Queenstown’s Lake Wakatipu, within a private bay 12 minutes from the central township, Waimarino Lodge offers an unparalleled experience for discerning vacationers seeking more than just a place to rest their head. Enveloped by crystal clear waters and awe-inspiring mountains, the exclusive series of dwellings on the lake’s edge set a new standard for luxury accommodation, encompassing 20 luxury villas and a single stunning residence. At this striking retreat, every detail has been meticulously mapped out to enhance the vacation experience and promote rest and relaxation. From the design — carefully conceived by Andrew McIntosh in collaboration with Design Base Architects and The Lennon Project to blend luxury with the tranquillity of the stunning surrounds, to the culinary offering, spanning fire-lit lakeside dinners under the stars to intimate, immersive meals at KA Restaurant rooted in seasonality and provenance, to the Waimarino Day Spa — its offering tailored to accommodate for individual wellbeing goals, a stay at Waimarino Lodge is one of immersion, connection, and the kind of impact that lingers long after you depart.

Owners Residence
Premium Unit
Yoga Studio

And, by design, it likely won’t be long before your next visit. For those who desire the privileges of ownership without commitment, Waimarino Lodge offers a highly exclusive membership program, ensuring every visit feels like coming home. Highly flexible, with options to suit different lifestyles and vacation types, members are granted privileged access to premium accommodations and curated experiences across the year, with every stay tailored to individual desires.

“Waimarino Lodge offers an unparalleled experience for discerning vacationers seeking more than just a place to rest their head.”

Three tiers ensure exclusivity at every level. The Villa Membership grants 20 nights in a private villa, while the Residence Membership extends to 20 nights in a four-suite luxury residence. The Corporate Membership, designed for executive retreats and group escapes, offers 80 nights of premium accommodation, with all tiers afforded access to luxury electric vehicles and boats, private culinary events, and an annual delivery of Still Waters Gin, distilled on-site with native botanicals. 

Distillery

Considering travellers’ increasing interest in ecotourism, sustainability is woven into every aspect of Waimarino Lodge. Living roofs and solar integrate seamlessly with the environment, while off-grid technology ensures a light footprint. A philosophy that extends to every meal, with seasonal, locally sourced produce forming the foundation of a deeply considered culinary offering. 

View from the Restaurant

With construction now underway, and memberships available to lucky few, the lodge is preparing to open its doors in 2026. There are only 100 Founding Memberships available, and the first 20 Founding Members receive an upgrade to one night in the exquisite four suite residence, valued at over $25,000. 

For those seeking their own slice of paradise, Waimarino Lodge awaits.

waimarinolodge.co.nz

Design

Take a Tour: Matteo House by Trinity Architects is an ode to fluidity
Give interiors a timely update with new lighting by Flos
Master the perfect serve with this luxurious caviar set
Ashoka Reese Ring and Ashoka Brilliant Climber Earrings

Shop the Edit: Ashoka diamonds celebrates 25 years of unbridled brilliance

A cut like no other, the ASHOKA® diamond has dazzled for 25 years. Patented by the William Goldberg family in 1999, its 62 facets create a brilliance so clear, it appears 30% larger than an emerald cut. Rare and captivating, the ASHOKA® diamond embodies a legacy of beauty and distinction — showcased in all of its glory throughout our Autumn Issue’s cover shoot with Morgana O’Reilly.

Shop the edit

Ashoka Trio from Partridge
Ashoka Brilliant Climber Earrings from Partridge
Horizontal Ashoka Diamond Bracelet from Partridge
Ashoka Four Claw Solitaire from Partridge

Ashoka Diamond Tennis Bracelet from Partridge
Ashoka Stud Earrings from Partridge
Ashoka Small Bezel Hoop Earrings from Partridge
Ashoka Timo Ring from Partridge

partridgejewellers/ashoka.com

Coveted

Watch the Gucci’s Cruise 2026 fashion show via livestream, as the House heads back to its roots
Shop the Edit: Dark romance is the sartorial trend of the season, and these are the pieces we’re coveting
Met Gala 2025: Our guide to the best looks from the biggest night out in fashion
One of the houses new Ambassadors, Greta Lee

Tiffany & Co. has unveiled a new campaign that is a testament to love’s enduring power, embodied by a trio of the houses latest ambassadors

Tiffany & Co. continues its legacy of impactful storytelling with the unveiling of its latest HardWear campaign, a powerful narrative centered on the transformative strength of love. This significant moment introduces the House’s newest ambassadors: the compelling actress Mikey Madison, the insightful performer Greta Lee, and the nuanced artist Anna Weyant.

Anna Weyant
Tiffany HardWear Large Link Earrings from Tiffany & Co.
Tiffany HardWear Graduated Link Necklace from Tiffany & Co.

Captured with an artistic sensibility by the esteemed Harley Weir, the campaign presents these influential figures in striking HardWear pieces. Each ambassador offers a personal articulation of strength, forging a compelling link between their individual narratives and the inherent symbolism of the HardWear collection – a testament to both bold design and enduring resilience. This campaign underscores Tiffany & Co.’s profound connection to themes of empowerment and the enduring power of love.

Mikey Madison
Tiffany HardWear Small Link Rings from Tiffany & Co.
Tiffany HardWear Large Link Bracelet from Tiffany & Co.

The HardWear collection, with its distinctive blend of industrial edge and refined elegance, serves as a potent metaphor for the multifaceted nature of love itself – its ability to transform and fortify. The campaign thoughtfully juxtaposes the collection’s inherent strength with the individual power and inspiring journeys of Madison, Lee, and Weyant.

tiffany.com

Coveted

Watch the Gucci’s Cruise 2026 fashion show via livestream, as the House heads back to its roots
Shop the Edit: Dark romance is the sartorial trend of the season, and these are the pieces we’re coveting
Met Gala 2025: Our guide to the best looks from the biggest night out in fashion

Tiffany & Co. Celebrates Timeless Design in Latest High Jewellery Campaign

Tiffany & Co. has once again redefined the essence of luxury with its latest high jewellery campaign, a celebration of its enduring design legacy. Under the title “The Shape of Things to Come,” the iconic American jeweller showcases an elevated collection that spans beyond mere adornment—blurring the lines between art and timeless craftsmanship.

This collection draws inspiration from Tiffany’s storied past and is a nod to the future, bringing fresh perspectives on classic elegance. A true celebration of luxury, the pieces featured combine groundbreaking artistry with expert craftsmanship, making them as much a symbol of innovation as they are of tradition.

Each creation embodies Tiffany’s distinctive approach to design, from bold, modern silhouettes to timelessly refined pieces that capture the light and radiance of the wearer. The campaign itself, which features the stunning Anok Yai and Daria Strokous, is set against minimalist backdrops that allow the jewels to take centre stage. It’s a rare fusion of heritage and modernity that only Tiffany & Co. can execute with such precision.

But this collection isn’t just about aesthetics—it’s a statement on the enduring quality and craftsmanship that Tiffany & Co. has built its reputation on for over 180 years. The jewellery here speaks to the future, designed to be cherished for generations. Tiffany’s continued commitment to sustainability is evident, with each piece crafted with responsibly sourced stones and metals—a reflection of the brand’s forward-thinking ethos.

Whether you’re a connoisseur of fine jewellery or simply drawn to the captivating beauty of the collection, Tiffany & Co.’s latest high jewellery campaign invites you to experience not just pieces of exceptional beauty, but tangible pieces of legacy, where the art of design meets the art of living.

tiffany.com

Coveted

Watch the Gucci’s Cruise 2026 fashion show via livestream, as the House heads back to its roots
Shop the Edit: Dark romance is the sartorial trend of the season, and these are the pieces we’re coveting
Met Gala 2025: Our guide to the best looks from the biggest night out in fashion

No matter the event, Bar Magda’s private dining room should be your next booking

Nestled just behind bustling Karangahape Road, Bar Magda has long been synonymous with culinary mastery, providing a cosy ambience that transports guests away from the busy city streets. Its intimate setting coupled with its unique menu that explores Aotearoa’s seasonal produce through a Filipino lens has made Bar Magda one of our favourite dining destinations, and with an exquisite new private dining menu on the table, the experience here has just become a whole lot better.

Bar Magda’s exclusive private dining room is a sanctuary of elegance capable of accommodating up to 25 seated guests (or if extended into the bistro, 30-50 guests, depending on the type of event). Thoughtfully and comfortably furnished, this secluded enclave is the perfect choice for corporate soirées or special celebrations like birthdays, where guests can enjoy Bar Magda’s impeccable service and indulge in the finest cuisine, knowing that every detail has been meticulously curated to to meet expectations.

The Charcoal steak with soy butter

Alongside the exclusivity of the private dining room, Bar Magda also offers a range of versatile spaces for larger gatherings. The bar dining area, for instance, exudes an atmosphere of semi-private intimacy and comfortably fits up to 30 guests for a seated dinner. Meanwhile, the bar area is ideal for casual drinks and delectable snacks and can accommodate up to 40 guests seated, or 60 for a standing cocktail party. Combined, the venue can host up to 65 guests seated, and 120 people standing, ensuring a delightful balance between elegance, exclusivity and conviviality. The eatery is also now offering AVP with a separate speaker for more corporate-style work dinners, or events with digitalised programs intended.

Of course, larger groups of 10 to 20 can still book big tables at Bar Magda (perfect for events that don’t require an entirely private space) for which they can choose from the restaurant’s myriad set menus. The very reasonably priced $85 four-course sharing style menu with dessert is a great option, or add welcome bubbles to the four-course feast for just $100 per person. There is also a $75 three-course sharing style menu without dessert, and a $90 three-course set menu with welcome bubbles.

The Tartare of wild venison

When it comes to the food, Bar Magda unsurprisingly shines. Here, the large-format sharing menus promise a tantalising journey for the senses, with familiar Magda favourites on offer such as the tartare of wild venison, the famed Magda Salad, charcoal steak with soy butter, and raw tuna and grilled pork with soured cream and nashi pear.

So, whether it’s an intimate gathering in the private dining room, a corporate affair in one of the versatile spaces, or a leisurely experience with a group of friends, Bar Magda will transport its diners to another world. From its exceptional cuisine to its intimate setting to its meticulous attention to detail, Bar Magda is truly a hidden gem in Auckland’s dining scene, and continues to exceed expectations, every time.

barmagda.co.nz

Gastronomy

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Elevate your beauty routine with the season’s simplest but most impactful trend — bold eyeliner

Bare-faced beauty is a distant summer memory; bold brilliance is back, and eyeliner is taking centre stage. A cat eye remains a fail-safe way to jazz up any look, but this season, double down on the weight and length of the line for a look that commands attention.

Dior Diorshow On Stage Crayon kohl pencil from Sephora
Napoleon Perdis Sketch Pot gel eyeliner from Adore Beauty
Nude by Nature angled eyeliner brush from Adore Beauty
Victoria Beckham Satin Kajal liner from FWRD
Stila Stay All Day waterproof liquid eyeliner from Mecca 
Hourglass Voyeur waterproof liquid liner from Mecca 
Pro Longwear Fluidline eyeliner from MAC Cosmetics
Clinique High Impact Easy liquid liner from Sephora

Wellbeing

Discover the five skin-loving botanicals you should know, and how they care for your skin
We sit down with Lucy Caldwell and Bella Ireland, founders of the new self-tan-meets-skincare brand making waves
Mānuka Phuel is a new natural energy source primed to fuel a new era of culture, creativity, and connection

The season for cosying up with a good book is here — this is our guide on what to read this autumn

As the cooler weather sets in, we’re more inclined than ever to cosy up with a captivating book to while away the evenings. This season, there’s a raft of new releases that are keeping our minds engaged and wanderlust at an all-time high. From textural memoirs to thrilling novels and alluring anthologies, debut authors to prize-winning doyens, these are the books we’re reading this autumn. Enjoy.

What to read
Escapist Reads

The Boy from the Sea 
by Garrett Carr 

Set against the rugged west coast of Ireland in the 1970s and 80s, The Boy from the Sea is a moving, comedic, and lyrical debut that follows the enigmatic Brendan — a baby discovered on the shore and adopted by a fishing family. As Brendan grows, his mystery captivates a close-knit community navigating the tides of change in an era of transformation.

Rabbit Moon
by Jennifer Haigh

Set against the vibrant backdrop of Shanghai, this gripping family drama follows the Litvaks as they reunite after a devastating accident involving their estranged daughter. In the hospital, they confront unsettling questions about her life in a rapidly evolving city — where nothing, and no one, is quite as it seems.

Zeal 
by Morgan Jerkins 

Spanning 150 years, Zeal intertwines the fates of star-crossed lovers, Harrison and Tirzah, with the lives of their descendants. From the aftermath of the Civil War to Harlem in 2019, Jerkins crafts a sweeping, multi-generational saga of love, legacy, and the lasting echoes of one generation’s choices.

Bad Nature 
by Ariel Courage

In Bad Nature, Hester — armed with a terminal diagnosis and a vendetta — embarks on a darkly comedic road trip to kill her estranged father. Joined by a hitchhiking environmentalist, their journey takes unexpected turns, blending revenge, redemption, and ecological musings in a subversive, sharp, and surprisingly heartfelt narrative.

One Good Thing 
by Georgia Hunter

Set in war-torn Italy, One Good Thing follows Lili, a young Jewish woman who risks everything to protect her best friend’s son during the Nazi occupation. With evocative prose and heart-stopping twists, this unforgettable novel is a profound meditation on the unyielding bonds of love and the extraordinary courage found in the unlikeliest of circumstances.

Open, Heaven 
by Seán Hewitt

Laurel Prize-winning author Seán Hewitt weaves a luminous tale of first love and its lasting scars. Set in a remote northern English village, the novel follows James, a shy teenager, whose encounter with the magnetic Luke reshapes his understanding of boyhood, sensuality, and love in all its messy, beautiful forms.

Dream Count 
by Chimamanda Ngozi Adichie

From the award-winning author of Americanah comes a captivating tale of love and longing. In Dream Count, Chimamanda Ngozi Adichie interweaves the lives of four women navigating heartbreak and hardship, offering a profound meditation on happiness, identity, and the intricate bonds of womanhood.

Nova Scotia House 
by Charlie Porter

A relationship, a community, an era — protagonist Johnny Grant reflects on his life with Jerry Field, their self-determined lives and love shaped by joy, loss, and the devastation of the AIDS crisis. Both a love story and a lament, Porter’s captivating and heartfelt debut is a tender exploration of how memories of the past can shape the future. 

What to read
Real-Life Reads

Searches: Selfhood in the Digital Age 
by Vauhini Vara

From Pulitzer finalist Vauhini Vara comes a provocative exploration of how Big Tech has reshaped language. Blending personal narrative with investigative insight, Vara examines the allure and risks of AI-powered communication — questioning whether these tools will liberate us or further exploit our voices.

Firstborn Girls 
by Bernice McFadden

In this richly textured memoir, American author Bernice McFadden delves into her family’s complex legacy, beginning with her own near-death experience as a toddler in 1967. Through the lens of her remarkable life and the stories of her ancestors, this deeply intimate work uncovers the interwoven threads of trauma, resilience, and the enduring power of love.

White Light 
by Jack Lohmann

A sweeping exploration of life’s cycles through the lens of phosphate — the essential element that bridges life and death. White Light weaves ecology, history, and investigative reporting to unravel humanity’s exploitation of Earth’s resources, revealing its profound consequences and urging a renewed connection to nature’s rhythms.

Good Enough 
by Dr Tara Porter

Psychologist and mother Dr Tara Porter empowers parents to embrace imperfection in raising resilient, self-reliant children. Drawing on over 25 years of expertise, she offers a refreshing, relatable approach to parenting — helping families navigate modern pressures with confidence and the liberating reminder that ‘good enough’ really is good enough.

What to read
Anthologies

Make Believe
by Victoria Hutchins

In Make Believe, poet Victoria Hutchins invites readers on a journey of rediscovery, blending nostalgia and wonder with healing and hope. Through evocative verse, this debut collection inspires us to reimagine struggles as strengths, and rekindle belief in joy, miracles, and ourselves.

Scorched Earth
by Tiana Clark

A bold and lyrical poetry collection, Scorched Earth traverses the landscapes of heartbreak, joy, and identity. From historical reckonings to everyday mundanity, this striking work marries reverence with irreverence — offering a transcendent exploration of radical love, sensuality, and resilience.

(Sorry I Was Miles Away) In the Year of Romance
by Lucas Jones

Actor, writer, director, musician, and beloved poet Lucas Jones delivers a striking and deeply moving meditation on love, loss, and life’s many lessons. This captivating anthology brims with hope, humanity, and heart — exploring the emotions that shape us.

A Beautiful Lack of Consequence 
by Monika Radojevic

This searing work blurs the lines between the surreal and the everyday. With tender ferocity and dark humour, Radojevic captures contemporary womanhood — rage, love, and quiet resistance, exploring what happens when world-weathered women finally fight back.

Culture

How to: Secure a Table
Why Denizen supports B416 in banning under-16s from social media
Spanning travel, art, and design, these coffee table tomes are seriously worth poring over

An elevated residence with 360-degree views of Sydney Harbour — this is a luxury retreat like no other

Architecture — Maya Sternberg Architects
Interior Design — Nina Maya Interiors
Photography — Felix Forest

A sense of timeless luxury permeates every inch of Villa D’Estate — a striking, sculptural residence perched on a clifftop high above Sydney’s picturesque harbour, offering a truly one-of-a-kind escape.

A stunning fusion of modern architecture and timeless elegance, Nina Maya Interiors’ Villa D’Estate sits as the pinnacle of luxury living. A six-year project from start to finish, the elevated residence was an eye-watering undertaking, with the design team knocking down and rebuilding the home so as to wholly maximise the sweeping, panoramic views, and reimagine the space’s impact. 

Despite its vast scale, the four-storey residence unfolds as a serene haven. From a sculptural, curved staircase which snakes up through the home’s centre, to a series of five retreat-like bedrooms, each with floor-to-ceiling views of the stunning surrounds, and bespoke marble ensuites — every aspect of this project was carefully considered with an eye to elevate the daily life of not only its inhabitants, but visiting guests too.

Camaleonda seating by Mario Bellini for B&B Italia for Matisse

The master bedroom, which boasts 360-degree vistas of Sydney Harbour, including the iconic Opera House, is the lap of luxury. Here, a steam shower leads seamlessly to an outdoor oasis, complete with a plunge pool within which one can take in the surrounding splendour.

While Villa D’Estate boasts a range of high-end amenities designed for modern living, such as a state-of-the-art gym and full size steam room on the ground floor, Nina Maya and her team — who were given carte blanche by the clients, were careful not to lean into modernity too much at the expense of creating something lacking in soul. As such, femininity played a pivotal role in the design, inspiring a softness and warmth demonstrated in the thoughtful detailing throughout the home. 

Pumpkin chairs and sofa by Pierre Paulin for Ligne Roset

On the ground level sits the pinnacle of a modern kitchen — much of which is rendered in a striking, deeply detailed Primavera marble, with a gently undulating kitchen island nodding to the form of the central stair. Alongside the kitchen on the ground floor sits a stunningly finished, double height conservatory, flanked by mature trees and leading directly onto a serene, Japanese-inspired garden courtyard. Here, Pierre Paulin’s iconic Pumpkin chairs lend the space a sense of comfort, while a bespoke commissioned artwork by Ben Mazey draws the eye to the canopy above.

The home’s formal living area gives the influence of curvature new life, centred around a jaw-dropping custom marble fireplace backing onto a wall of the same dimensions. But, perhaps the most striking space of all on this lower level is also the most unassuming — the powder room. A solid marble, stacked vanity emerges from the floor, growing in scale and impact as it ascends. Its splendour is only enhanced by the glowing, double height crystal brick wall — custom made by Nina Maya Interiors. 

Elsewhere in the home, a series of lounge areas (seven, in total) run the gamut from formal entertaining spaces to quiet, cavernous retreats, while two richly-finished studies offer quietly designed spaces for focused work. A convivial bar rendered in a deep cream marble mirrors the stunning, stacked form of the powder room vanity. Accompanied by an open wine cellar enveloped entirely in deep onyx, the bar is one of the home’s many communal areas dedicated to entertaining. 

Tape Cord outdoor armchair by Nendo and Florida outdoor sofa by Rodolfo Dordoni, both for Minotti

The exterior spaces are equally impressive, with a series of meticulously designed terraces dotted across the property. A Mediterranean-inspired oasis complete with a semi circle infinity pool offers unobstructed views of the harbour, while a sweeping, covered outdoor area off the kitchen on the mid level boasts a similar outlook, imagined as the ideal spot for larger gatherings.

This is a home made for entertaining, with endless opportunities for unforgettable experiences. But ultimately, where Villa D’Estate’s magic lies is in the way it offers a refined escape from the bustle of city life — while wholly immersing inhabitants in the splendour of it’s beauty. 

Design

Take a Tour: Matteo House by Trinity Architects is an ode to fluidity
Give interiors a timely update with new lighting by Flos
Master the perfect serve with this luxurious caviar set
Morgana wears Platinum ASHOKA® Three-Stone ring, Spiral ring, Timo ring all from Partridge (partridgejewellers.com)

Our autumn cover star Morgana O’Reilly on The White Lotus, juggling parenthood and ambition, and what comes next

Words by Sjaan Askwith | Photography by Olivia Kirkpatrick | Videography by Devan Narsai | Production & Styling by Claire SullivanKraus


Equal parts heart and hilarity, whether she’s deftly portraying a character on screen, or navigating the push-pull of motherhood and a prolific acting career, there’s an undeniable force to Morgana O’Reilly. Now, a new chapter is dawning as she steps onto her biggest stage yet — The White Lotus, in a role that feels both like a turning point and natural next step.


Morgana wears ASHOKA® Four Claw Solitaire ring, Spiral ring, Diamond Infinity Collier necklace, Horizontal Diamond bracelet, Timo Huggie bracelet, Timo II Huggie bracelet all from Partridge

When we meet, Morgana O’Reilly is, true to form, in the middle of everything. There’s a TV series just wrapped, another about to begin filming, a stage show-turned-film in post-production, and, of course, the painfully slow (for us, the audience) week-by-week roll-out of the third season of The White Lotus, within which O’Reilly plays a sardonic ‘health butler’ called Pam. But, despite the chaos, she’s characteristically generous with her time, and as hilarious as one would expect.

For O’Reilly, growing up, performance was part of the rhythm of daily life. The daughter of a dancer and a designer, her childhood was anything but conventional, “Mum and Dad were both artists in their own right,” she recalls. “Dad is very ingenious, he’s got a wonderful mind for innovation and is great with words, and Mum is an incredible dancer and choreographer, and famously a founding member of the Limbs Dance Company.” The actress notes that inheriting both her mother’s penchant for performance and her father’s gift of the gab and gregariousness laid the foundations for what would become her lifelong career. “It was always just part of our world to perform, and [my parents] have always been my best audience.”

But beneath the playful side of her upbringing, accompanying her mum at rehearsals, joining in on interpretive dance classes with people decades her senior, and crafting gags at home with her dad, there was a deeper lesson being instilled: creativity as craft; as an act of devotion. “Mum and Dad always made it clear that life wasn’t about sitting around and waiting for things to happen to you.” She tells me that, in a moment of profundity, her father once said to her “Morgan (her parents’ pet name for her), the world never waits. You can be the best at what you do, but if you don’t jump in there and put your hand up and say, ‘It’s my turn,’ then you won’t go anywhere.” She adds, “You don’t realise until you’re older what your childhood meant in the context of everybody else’s, and I was really lucky.”

Morgana wears ASHOKA® Spiral ring, Timo ring, Timo II Huggie bracelet, Horizontal Diamond bracelet, Timo Huggie bracelet, Platinum Three-Stone and Small Diamond Cluster earrings, Platinum Diamond Cluster necklace, Diamond Infinity Collier necklace all from Partridge.

These strong foundations set O’Reilly on a path that feels predestined. At the age of 13, she enrolled in the Trinity School of Speech and Drama, which she found too regimented (her acting philosophy flies closer to the more intuitive, playful, and visceral side of the craft). Realising this early on, the then-budding performer auditioned for Out Loud Theatre Company, a youth theatre company run through the performing arts school, helmed by Ros Gardner. “If I ever win an Oscar, Ros is who I’ll thank,” laughs O’Reilly. “It was an incredible theatre company of kids who were about 13 to 17, and it was unlike anything I’d experienced before. Opposed to drama at school, where, if you were doing anything slightly risky, everyone would dissolve into fits of laughter, there, everyone was really passionate about the craft, even at such a young age.” 

By the time she reached high school, she was devouring every opportunity to perform. “I was that kid who was always ‘on’ — which I’m sure was a nightmare for my teachers; they definitely thought I was an asshole, but I think deep down they knew I’d turn out OK.” Theatre school followed, “I never missed a single day,” and before long, the screen beckoned.

Now, with a nearly two-decade-long career spanning stage, television, and film, O’Reilly has become one of the most dynamic acting talents to come out of New Zealand. And her latest role in The White Lotus — Mike White’s searing social satire watched by millions the world-over — has thrust her onto the global stage.

The HBO phenomenon’s third season, set against the lush backdrop of paradisical Thailand, is already in full swing, with audiences eagerly dissecting each weekly episode for its signature captivating cocktail of privilege, power, and moral corruption. 

Her character — cool, calculated, and juxtapositionally (in the context of the cast) human — brings a subtle, irreverent edge to a show that thrives on its blend of dark humour and incisive commentary. Though the series is centred on its ensemble of privileged vacationers and the unravelling of their carefully maintained façades, O’Reilly’s contribution to the sprawling narrative is pitch perfect. 

“O’Reilly has become one of the most dynamic acting talents to come out of New Zealand, and her latest role in ‘The White Lotus’ has thrust her onto the global stage.”

Appearing in the show is an experience she describes as both surreal and deeply validating. “The first day in the resort with the other actors was wild. It’s The White Lotus. The calibre of people involved, the level of craft — it’s incredible, and I was definitely nervous on day one.” She continues, “I still remember when the coverage turned around onto me. I remember hearing somebody say, ‘Well, Morgana, it’s your turn,’ (she recites this line in a thick American accent) basically implying that millions of people were going to be watching, and I just had this wonderfully calm feeling of going, that’s fine, baby. I can do this. You’re recording, well fucking watch this. I’m good at this bit. I do crazy shit on stage all the time — this, I can do.”

Morgana wears  ASHOKA® Brilliant Climber earrings,  Spiral ring, Timo ring, Timo Huggie bracelet, Timo II Huggie bracelet all from Partridge. Margaux trench from Reine.

She credits Mike White’s approach, and the relative freedom he affords his actors to make characters their own, but says that the set-up of filming is unlike anything she’s ever experienced. All of the actors and their families live in the resort (“My family is ruined, we can never go on holiday ever again… nothing will compare.”) — a place of utter opulence made for holiday-makers and relaxation, that becomes their office. But, with White, nothing is unintentional, and the energy that breeds, the controlled chaos, only adds to what each actor brings to the screen, and certainly contributes to the show’s intensity. 

White’s writing balances the absurd with the painfully real, giving audiences a voyeuristic glimpse into lives where wealth cushions, but never truly protects, from the consequences of desire and deception. “He’s a creative genius,” Morgana says simply. “It’s right up my alley, that mix of drama and comedy — that knowing wink to the audience.”

Morgana wears ASHOKA® Genie Chandelier earrings, Platinum Diamond Cluster necklace, Spiral ring, Horizontal Diamond bracelet, Timo ring all from Partridge. Origami Collar Reversed shirt dress from Rory William Docherty.

There’s something distinctly her about that statement. She is, in many ways, the perfect fit for White’s universe — an actor who relishes the layers, the contradictions. Her comedic pitch and timing is impeccable, but it’s always underscored by meaning. “I love characters who have layer upon layer,” she says. “I love covering things up to then let them peep out.”

O’Reilly’s ability to slip into different registers — comedic, dramatic, deeply unsettling — has been a hallmark of her career. “I like characters with contradictions,” she explains. “People who say one thing but mean another, or who are trying so hard to hold it together that you can visibly see the cracks.”

“I want to push myself as a writer. I spent years with writer’s block, but I’ve realised you don’t have to have it all figured out. You just have to start somewhere.”

Her sweeping portfolio is a testament to this — a body of work characterised by its versatility, from gritty independent films to experimental theatre to mainstream TV. From her first series, the sketch comedy A Thousand Apologies, to her breakout role in Housebound — a horror-comedy cult favourite — to her work on stage (and a travelling stage show that she took to living rooms around the world), to starring in local psychological drama Friends Like Her, and her latest project, Playing Gracie Darling — an Australian drama-thriller series centred on a séance gone wrong, despite the character, context, or medium, O’Reilly has never shied away from complexity. “I think it’s important to honour the messiness of people,” she says.

A philosophy which, while enlivened through her acting, extends beyond it. In Stories About My Body, a solo stage show she both conceived and performed, O’Reilly turned the lens inward, exploring her relationship with her own body with humour, vulnerability, and unfiltered honesty. The show struck a nerve, resonating with audiences across generations. “I made it because it was the show I needed to see,” she says. “I was in my late 30s, post-kids, and my body was changing in ways I hadn’t expected. I just thought — why aren’t we talking about this more?”

Rather than letting the show exist solely in the ephemeral space of live theatre, O’Reilly made the decision to adapt it into a film. “I knew the show had more life in it,” she says, “So we pulled together every favour and raised about $50,000 via crowd-funding — which is nothing in the badlands of film, but it was enough to create something really special. It’s been made possible by the people its content was written for.”

The result is a raw, intimate, and utterly hilarious piece of cinema. “It’s kind of like a stand-up special,” she laughs. “But a theatre special. It has boobs, stories of my time working at foot fetish parties, and ends on one of my birth videos.” She pauses, giggling, and adds, “Don’t worry, everyone is on board at that point so it doesn’t seem as full-on as it sounds.” 

Morgana wears ASHOKA® Genie Chandelier earrings, Diamond Infinity Collier necklace, Spiral ring, Timo ring, Timo Huggie bracelet all from Partridge. Celine Tuxedo coat from Reine.

O’Reilly’s approach to body image and self-worth as a whole is refreshingly nuanced. “I would dare say that the changes in society have actually been rather little. I think a big positive change has been social media, and a big negative change has been social media,” she reflects. “If you curate your social media with consciousness, you can have a really empowering and supportive space that doesn’t alienate your body. But obviously the opposite is the reality for a lot of people.” 

“I haven’t had Botox or anything like that, but I try to unpack why I might consider trying to erase lines between my eyebrows — it’s funny that the idea of a thinking woman might be less desirable…”

Her own journey has been about untethering her value from aesthetics. “I try to think about it in terms of adornment versus conformity. Like, am I celebrating myself, or just trying to fit in?” She continues, “I haven’t had Botox or anything like that, but I try to unpack why I might consider trying to erase lines between my eyebrows — it’s funny that the idea of a thinking woman might be less desirable than a thinking man.”

That level of introspection informs how she parents, too. “I want my kids to know that how they feel about themselves shouldn’t be dictated by a mirror,” she says. “I want to, as much as possible, help them to untether the way they look from their self-worth and their success, and know that movement, good food, all of it — is about feeling good, not looking good.”

Morgana wears ASHOKA® Spiral ring, Platinum Three-Stone ring, Timo ring all from Partridge.

Family life is central to O’Reilly, though, as she openly admits, juggling the demands of young kids with work is a constant experiment. “Luckily, I didn’t marry a man-child,” she quips, speaking about her Emmy Award-winning TV and Film producer/director husband, Peter Salmon, “I married an incredible man who values fatherhood immensely.” Their dynamic is one of fluidity — trading roles, calling in reinforcements when needed, and accepting that chaos is part of the deal. “We weren’t designed to do this alone,” she says. “It takes a village — sometimes a paid village, but a village nonetheless.”

That perspective has shaped how she approaches career decisions, particularly as her children grow older. “I owe it to them to be present,” she says. “Which means making choices that allow me to be home more.” Still, ambition burns bright. “I want to do more film,” she says. “And I want to push myself as a writer. I spent years with writer’s block, but I’ve realised you don’t have to have it all figured out. You just have to start somewhere.”

Morgana wears ASHOKA® Genie Chandelier earrings, Platinum Diamond Cluster necklace, Spiral ring, Horizontal Diamond bracelet, Timo ring all from Partridge. Origami Collar Reversed shirt dress from Rory William Docherty.

Her career has long been built on a foundation of versatility and authenticity. O’Reilly has never shied away from challenging roles or from the more nuanced, less glamorous aspects of acting. Even as the spotlight shines on a series as high-profile as The White Lotus, her focus remains on the craft itself rather than fleeting fame. “I’ve always believed that the real work happens when no one is watching,” she remarks, a nod to the quiet dedication that has defined her career. This commitment to her craft has allowed her to remain relevant in an industry notorious for its rapid turnover of talent, proving time and time again that a steady, thoughtful approach can yield results far more enduring than the latest hot ticket.

O’Reilly tells me before our conversation comes to a close that Ira Glass’ line — ‘Good stories happen to those who can tell them,’ is a quote that rattles around in her mind frequently and informs her approach to both work and life. It’s clear that, to her, storytelling isn’t simply a career. It’s a way of moving through the world; making sense of it. Whether she’s standing on a stage, staring down a camera lens, or weaving together a new project from the fragments of an idea, one thing is certain — she was always meant to do this, and I think she always will.

Makeup and Hair: Kiekie Stanners

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